Deception in Disguise

Ed and his wife Lillian had been quietly managing their financial struggles when Ed received a phone call that seemed to offer a lifeline. A stranger (saying he was representing a political incumbent) promised a generous deposit if Ed would simply provide his bank card number and PIN. He was told this was an initiative of the federal government on behalf of Seniors. Desperation led to trust, and within hours, their account was emptied and their credit maxed out.

Stories like Ed’s aren’t rare. They're part of an alarming pattern. Seniors across Canada are increasingly the targets of fraud schemes that not only drain their savings but also shake their confidence and independence. These scams aren’t just clever tricks—they're calculated attacks on those least equipped to fight back.

The Growing Threat in Canada

The tactics used by fraudsters are constantly evolving. Some impersonate government agencies like the CRA, others pose as tech support or long-lost romantic interests. Many use fear and urgency to pressure seniors into handing over personal details.

And the financial damage is staggering. In 2024 alone, losses reported by seniors to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre exceeded $137 million. Yet this is only a fraction of the true cost. Many victims never report what happened, ashamed or afraid of losing autonomy in their affairs. Too often, those who do report never see their money returned.

Why Seniors Are Targeted

The reasons are painfully clear. Many older adults live alone and are more likely to engage with unsolicited calls or emails. They're often from generations that value trust and politeness, making them less likely to challenge strangers. Gaps in digital literacy add another layer of vulnerability. Scammers exploit confusion around new technologies to gain access.

What’s often overlooked is the emotional vulnerability that can make these tactics so effective. A senior who’s isolated might welcome conversation from a stranger. A grandparent deeply invested in family might leap to help someone they believe is a relative in trouble.

Helping Seniors Stay Safe

Families and caregivers play a vital role in protection. Start by having regular conversations. Talk about scams you’ve heard about and ask how your loved one might respond. Be encouraging, not critical. Empower them with the tools to pause and evaluate.

Offer help with digital safety. Set up strong passwords, review account settings, and install security software on devices. For banking and communication accounts, enable two-factor authentication when possible.

Make it easy to reach out. Suggest a simple rule: if something feels off, stop and check in with someone they trust. That small pause can make all the difference.

If the Worst Happens

If fraud does occur, act swiftly. Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and contact local authorities. Notify financial institutions immediately—they may be able to freeze accounts or recover funds.

Document everything: messages, emails, transactions, even handwritten notes. These details help investigators trace the scam and may protect others down the line.

Most importantly, offer reassurance. Victims of fraud often feel ashamed, believing they should have known better. Remind them this can happen to anyone. Their trust was misplaced—but your trust in them remains whole.

Closing Thoughts

The rise in scams targeting seniors is more than a troubling trend—it’s a form of abuse that undermines dignity and autonomy. Protecting older Canadians starts with listening, educating, and standing beside them.

Ed and Lillian’s story doesn’t need to be repeated. Every conversation we have, every safeguard we implement, is a step toward making sure it isn’t.

We recently featured a podcast with a victim of financial fraud. We encourage you and your loved seniors to listen to Lily’s lived experience of financial fraud and her learnings. CLICK HERE

To learn more about Financial Scams, visit the references below.

References

• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. (n.d.). Fraud and scams. Government of Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/seniors-forum-federal-provincial-territorial/fraud-scams.html
• CARP. (2025, April 1). Frauds and scams: CARP demands justice for seniors. https://www.carp.ca/2025/04/01/frauds-and-scams-carp-demands-justice-for-seniors/
• Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario. (n.d.). 5 cyber scams targeting seniors. https://eapon.ca/5-cyber-scams-targeting-seniors/
• Toronto Police Service. (n.d.). Frauds against seniors. https://www.tps.ca/crime-prevention/frauds-against-seniors/
• Get Cyber Safe. (n.d.). Common scams older adults should watch out for. https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/common-scams-older-adults-watch-out-for
• Lifeline Canada. (n.d.). Digital safety for seniors: Avoiding scams, fake news & social media pitfalls. https://www.lifeline.ca/en/blog/digital-safety-for-seniors-avoiding-scams-fake-news-social-media-pitfalls/